Seafood garners a share of the spotlight from time to time when it comes to health news, and for good reason. A lot of research has been conducted showing that seafood has a number of health benefits. Repeatedly mentioned are two long-chain omega-3 fats: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These two fatty acids are linked to improved heart health.
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Increased seafood consumption is linked to a decreased risk of cardiovascular deaths and heart events such as a heart attack. Even pregnant women, who are cautioned against eating all sorts of foods, should know that there is solid, consistent evidence that seafood can boost developmental outcomes such as visual acuity and cognitive development in infants and young children.
But these are not the only claims to fame for seafood when it comes to promoting good health. This healing food group contains a number of nutrients that play a big role in energy metabolism, growth and development, formation and maintenance of bones and teeth, formation of red blood cells, and the building of antibodies. Phew! It sounds like there should be some seafood added every week to your diet.
Just recently, one study noted that lifestyle-related diseases have become a serious problem around the world. The remedy for this? Diet…especially one that contains seafood! The researchers noted that there are special nutrients in seafood that aren’t present in terrestrial organisms. These include six main categories:
— N-3-polyunsaturated fatty acids –
– Protein –
– Amino acids –
– Fiber –
-Vitamins –
– Minerals
What types of seafood can you add to your weekly diet? Crab, shrimp, squid, oysters, prawns, clams, mussels, scallops, lobster, octopus, and smoked salmon are all options. Why not replace one of your red meat protein meals with some seafood? You’ll be getting a dose of healthful nutrients and a lot less saturated fat. Seafood shouldn’t bother your cholesterol levels (as long as you don’t eat it deep-fried), as it won’t up your LDL intake. The only exception is lobster, which should be eaten in moderation. Stay away from breaded seafood, as it is usually deep-fried, which pretty much erases the health benefits of eating fresh seafood in the first place.